April 1, 2017 marks the second anniversary of Sound Rivers’ creation which occurred by bringing together two extraordinary organizations, the Neuse Riverkeeper Foundation and the Pamlico-Tar River Foundation. These two organizations fought for clean water along the Neuse and Tar-Pamlico for more than 35 years. Combining into one organization has allowed us to share expertise and created a stronger voice to protect your rivers. Your continuing support over the past two years has been essential!

During these past two years our state and national governments changed administrations, and eastern North Carolina was devastated by our second 500-year flood in two decades. We are pleased to already be experiencing a more open Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) under the new Secretary, Michael Regan, and a renewed commitment to the DEQ’s mission of protecting our natural resources. This change at the state level comes at a fortuitous time as the Trump administration has made clear through an Executive Order, speeches and a proposed cut of almost a third of the EPA budget, that the EPA will not serve as an effective backstop in the event North Carolina regulators fail to act.

Hurricane Matthew had a significant effect on many parts of our region. Your Riverkeepers were instrumental in uncovering and documenting serious pollution events caused by the flood, and are actively working with others to take steps now that will mitigate the damage from future catastrophic events. The Upper Neuse Riverkeeper, Matthew Starr, is our registered lobbyist who is working hard to influence legislation that affects our rivers. We will continue to call on you when needed because your voice can make all the difference!

This April, in recognition of the second anniversary of our merger, generous supporters have agreed to match all gifts this month up to a total of $10,000. That means your support of Sound Rivers will be doubled, so there has never been a better time to renew your membership, increase your donation, or make a special contribution to keep your Riverkeepers on land, in the water and in the air, working with the community to stop pollution.

Our region’s waterways have shaped our rich history and culture; we’re working every day to ensure their healthy future. Sound Rivers is committed to making progress and improving water quality, and none of us are willing to return to a time of unregulated pollution and no accountability for polluters. But we can’t do it without you and there is no better time than April to show your support. You can give online here, call 252-637-7972, or send your check to PO Box 15451, New Bern, NC 28561.